Nick states, "There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy, and the tired." This divides the different classes of society into separate terms. The rich, who live an easy life with little to no work can be titled the pursued. Just below them, those who work hard yet still have an easier lifestyle than most are the pursuing. They are determined to become pursued, but do not have everything handed to them. The busy would relate to the middle class who constantly must work hard for little outcome. Lastly, the tired are the poor people who do excess work yet don't get reward.


Jordan says, "He's just a man named Gatsby This quote refers to the theme of the past and future. Gatsby's past is hidden in shadow and fantasies that the public creates; he is a mystery. This quote is important because by referring to Gatsby as "just a man", it creates the idea that he might not be so significant at all.


Nick says, "Americans, while occasionally willing to be serfs, have always been obstinate about being peasantry." This quote reflects the American idea that you are better than what you are. No matter what you or who you are one thinks they deserve more. Although most are willing to work, most are unwilling to accept the fact that they are poor, and they think they deserve more.